GO Transit and UP Express fare evasion penalties set to increase tomorrow

With summer nearing its end, Metrolinx has announced steeper penalties for fare evasion on GO Transit and UP Express, with the new fines set to take effect Sept. 8. In a decision approved by Metrolinx's board of directors in August, fare evasion penalties will increase progressively, with repeat offenders facing higher fines. Riders without proof of payment could face the following penalties: Under the current system, the penalties are: In a June report, GO Transit staff said the increased fines are expected to generate approximately $6.79 million to $10.18 million in additional revenue annually, based on the assumption that only 40 to 60 per cent of fines will be successfully collected. 'Graduated penalties communicate proportionate consequences, signalling that repeated non-compliance will be met with escalating sanctions (administrative fees to PONs to summons),' the report states. 'This clarity reduces 'testing' behaviour and encourages early compliance.' With files from CP24 managing editor Chris Fox